Mining and Minerals Regulatory Authority (MMRA) on Wednesday conducted sensitisation meetings in the areas of Senior Chief Kilupula and Sub-Traditional Authority Mwinuka in Karonga District on the effects of illegal mining and procedures for obtaining small-scale mining licences.

The meetings were held as part of MMRA’s efforts to promote responsible mining practices , raise awareness among communities about the dangers associated with illegal mining and the importance of complying with the country’s mining laws and regulations.

Speaking during a sensitisation meeting at Mwenewisi Village in the area of Senior Chief Kilupula, MMRA Inspection and Enforcement Officer Madalitso Chinduwi said illegal mining might appear to be an easy way of making a living, but it has serious consequences for miners, communities and the environment.

Chinduwi said illegal mining contributes to environmental degradation through land disturbance, deforestation and soil erosion, while also polluting rivers, streams and other water sources.

He further said illegal mining increases the risk of child labour and school dropouts, exposes miners and surrounding communities to unsafe living and working conditions, and can result in injuries, accidents and loss of life.

“Let us work together to promote responsible and legal mining practices,” Chinduwi said.

He encouraged people in the area to organise themselves into cooperatives and apply for mining licences instead of engaging in illegal mining activities.

Chinduwi said, obtaining a mining licence enables miners to operate legally while providing an opportunity for them to access technical guidance and comply with environmental, health and safety requirements.

He also urged communities to report suspected illegal mining activities to the relevant authorities and to avoid supporting activities that could damage the environment or put people’s lives at risk.

In his remarks, Senior Chief Kilupula commended MMRA for conducting the sensitisation meetings, describing them as an eye-opener because many people were not aware of the different types of mining licences and their affordability.

He therefore asked MMRA to conduct more sensitisation meetings to equip community members with knowledge on how to operate legally and safely in the mining sector.